Some records are best heard without any hype, without all unnecessary shouting and raving. Such is the case with the latest eponymous offering from Carnival Skin. Guitarist Bruce Eisenbeil, percussionist Klaus Kugel, clarinettist Perry Robinson, trumpeter Peter Evans and bassist Hilliard Greene are the faces behind the name. Discovery for me is the fierce guitar playing of Bruce Eisenbeil [one of the initiators of this group]. While it's too easy to throw a Sonny Sharrock comparison his way, there is a certain truth to it. His barrelling, rough lines full of melodic chaos are evident throughout much of the album. Klaus Kugel's percussion skills shine through and through as he pounds his skins into submission [what's great is he's right up-front in the mix, and not relegated to the role of a "supporting" member]. Biggest surprise is the way Perry Robinson adjusts himself into the role. Clarinet lines flow out of him not so much with a sense of grace or any sort of wonder, but with sheer force. The duelling, full-frontal attack of Robinson on clarinet and trumpeter Peter Evans is stunning in execution. Waves of heavy blowing mutilation are heard, which are accompanied by a further hailstorm from Eisenbeil on that lovely, crunchy guitar. Bassist Hilliard Greene acts as the pulse as his fast picking provides good ballast. Above all else, this is a fascinating listen and a top-rate session through and through. Let's just hope this isn't a one-off deal.